University Evolving to a Workplace of Choice

Executive leaders, administrators, faculty and staff are invited to join in the continuing evolution of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston to a Workplace of Choice.

The goal is to become a place where the norm is treating people well, having passion for work and taking pride in the accomplishments of the health science center.

Some 160 faculty and staff leaders from across the campus came together at a Nov. 1 kickoff luncheon to discuss ideas for how the institution can become a workplace of choice.

"We need to hear all the ideas we can about how we can make this a better place to work," said James T. Willerson, M.D., health science center president. "We need to encourage all ideas and act on the best of them."

Becoming a workplace of choice is vital to the future of the health science center, because the U.S. is facing the greatest labor shortage it has ever faced, according to Sherry Wilson, who directs the initiative. "As the baby boomers retire, there is going to be greater and greater competition for top employees. If we are going to compete for personnel, we have to become a workplace of choice."

During the first year of the initiative, listening will be emphasized through a short online survey. Also in the planning stages are training programs, which can lead to enhanced performance, as well as promotions and job growth for employees and administrators, said Wilson, director of the Employee Assistance and WorkLife Programs. On tap will be training in emotional IQ - how to use your emotions intelligently to further your career and the careers of those around you; a new collaboration between Employee Assistance Program therapists and the conflict resolution board; and a health science center-wide Wellness Fair Jan. 19 at the Medical School Fitness Center.

A champion of the health science center's evolution to a workplace of choice, Michael McKinney, M.D., senior executive vice president and chief operating officer, believes it is important to grow the abilities of those who work with you. "Find your successors - teach, train, mentor them. The best trait is openness. Be honest. Tell the truth. Share information," he advised.

By Pamela Lewis, Public Affairs